FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR VESSEL REGISTRATION
We understand that the registration process for vessels can be confusing, which is why we always make an effort to answer your questions and address your doubts. Here we answer some frequently asked questions about Transport Canada boat registration so that you can move forward without issue.Transport Canada Marine TransportationWHAT IS VESSEL TONNAGE?
Tonnage is not about the weight. It is a measurement of the vessel’s internal volume. Tonnage refers to the overall volume of a vessel.
HOW DO I RENEW MY CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRY?
A Certificate of Registry is valid for three (3) years. A Certificate of Registry will be issued to the owner or the authorized representative 30 days before it expires. To ensure that your Certificate of Registry remains valid, you must report any change(s) to the information shown on the Certificate of Registry, including a change of address, in writing, within 30 days of having made the changes. If you do not, your registration may be suspended or canceled. Anyone operating a vessel with an invalid document violates the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and is liable to prosecution.
WHAT VESSELS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRY?
In Canada, all non-pleasure vessels powered by an engine of 10hp (7.5kw) or more and commercial river rafts must be registered with Transport Canada’s Canadian Register of Vessels or Small Vessel Register (Commercial).
HOW CAN I SEND MY CREDIT CARD PAYMENT?
You will be required to input your credit card information at the end of each form. If you are having difficulties with your credit card, a documentation processor will contact you.
DO YOU HAVE WALK-IN SERVICE?
No, we currently don’t offer a walk in service. You may however submit your registry application(s) using our secure online portal, or you may reach us at 1 (800) 419-9569
How Can I Send My Paperwork to You?
Upload Documents Through our “DOCUMENT UPLOAD” Page.
You can also fax us documents at (800) 419-9569.
Alternatively, you can also email us at submissions@canadianvesselregistry.ca
We do not have a “walk-in" office.” Do not mail your documentation to us. Instead, use one of the three options above.
You can also fax us documents at (800) 419-9569.
Alternatively, you can also email us at submissions@canadianvesselregistry.ca
We do not have a “walk-in" office.” Do not mail your documentation to us. Instead, use one of the three options above.
Can I Request My Documentation is Prioritized?
Yes. File for “Priority Request.”
Many of the Canadian vessel documentation forms at our site can be expedited. To do, click “Priority Request” towards the bottom of the form. For a fee, we will put your forms at the top of our queue. That way, you have a better chance of receiving your forms that much more quickly.
Many of the Canadian vessel documentation forms at our site can be expedited. To do, click “Priority Request” towards the bottom of the form. For a fee, we will put your forms at the top of our queue. That way, you have a better chance of receiving your forms that much more quickly.
How Do I Notify You of My Change of Address?
Using this form at our site, you can change your mailing address, to update it for the vessel registry. There is other information that you may have to send along with this form.
Remember: you cannot update your address on your registration renewal. This is true whether your vessel is on the Large or Small Vessel Register. The same goes for the pleasure craft licence.
Remember: you cannot update your address on your registration renewal. This is true whether your vessel is on the Large or Small Vessel Register. The same goes for the pleasure craft licence.
MAY I RENEW MY DOCUMENT EARLY?
You Can Renew It 45 Days in Advance
That’s when Transport Canada will let you know that your documentation is set to expire. Canadian vessel documentation is valid for five years. You can renew your documentation through our site.
That’s when Transport Canada will let you know that your documentation is set to expire. Canadian vessel documentation is valid for five years. You can renew your documentation through our site.
WHAT IS VESSEL DOCUMENTATION
Vessel documentation refers to the formal process of registering a watercraft with a government authority, typically the maritime or coast guard agency of a particular country. This process involves obtaining legal proof of ownership and securing a unique identification for the vessel. The objective is to ensure that a vessel is recognized as a legal entity, which is crucial for various purposes, including navigation, commerce, and compliance with maritime regulations.